Customs – Trade Partnerships Against Terrorism

What is C-TPAT?

Designed to protect global commerce from Terrorism by strengthening border security, C-TPAT is a comprehensive public/private partnership between the US Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and all participants of the supply chain importing goods into the US. This program requires all participants in the supply chain to achieve certain standards of security. Those businesses that meet or exceed the security standards set by CBP will be given expedited processing at ports of entry.

Why is C-TPAT important now?

On March 25, 2005, the CBP announced new requirements for C-TPAT. CPB have placed the onus on importers to conduct a comprehensive assessment of their supply chains based upon C-TPAT security criteria. Where an importer outsources or contracts elements of its supply chain, such as a foreign facility, conveyance, domestic warehouse, or other elements, the importer must work with these business partners to ensure that pertinent security measures are in place and adhered to throughout the supply chain. The supply chain is considered as the point of origin (manufacturer/supplier/vendor) through to the point of distribution – and recognizes the diverse business models C-TPAT members employ.

Importers must not only implement acceptable security standards in line with the new criteria within their own organization, but must also conduct a comprehensive assessment of their international supply chain based upon the new C-TPAT security criteria. C-TPAT has recognized the complexity of international supply chains and endorses the application and implementation of security measures based upon risk analysis. Therefore, the program allows for flexibility and the customization of security plans based on the member’s business model.

This places the onus of security throughout the supply chain directly onto the shoulders of the importer who must ensure that security throughout its supply chain is appropriate based on risk analysis. Failure to do so may have serious consequences on the timely importation of products into the US.

How can I ensure compliance?

Existing C-TPAT Member Importers:  For existing C-TPAT members, you must ensure that you have a current Threat, Risk and Vulnerability Assessment in place and that your security profile meets the new criteria in accordance with the risk analysis. 

New Importers and Non-Certified Participants: Non-certified importers will need to conduct a Threat, Risk and Vulnerability assessment and ensure their security profile meets the new criteria before they will be eligible for benefits.

We are experienced in conducting C-TPAT Threat, Risk and Vulnerability Assessments and can assist you in meeting the new criteria for C-TPAT

For more information please contact Scott.Murphy@DataPerceptions.com